arthropati

Arhropati, or arthropathy in English, is a medical term for diseases that affect the joints, cartilage, or periarticular structures. The word combines Greek roots for joint (arthron) and suffering (pathos). Arthropathies encompass a broad range of disorders, from degenerative to inflammatory and metabolic conditions, and can involve one or more joints.

They are commonly categorized as inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Inflammatory arthropathies, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, and reactive arthritis, involve immune or crystal-driven processes and often present with joint swelling, warmth, and morning stiffness. Non-inflammatory arthropathies, most notably osteoarthritis, arise from wear, injury, or metabolic factors and typically cause pain and reduced movement without prominent swelling or systemic symptoms. Other causes include infectious arthritis and metabolic or crystal deposition diseases like CPPD.

Diagnosis relies on history and examination, supported by imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) and laboratory testing. Blood tests may reveal inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP) and autoantibodies (rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP) in inflammatory types; joint aspiration can detect crystals or infection.

Management is type-specific and aims to relieve symptoms, preserve joint function, and slow progression. General measures include weight control, physical therapy, and activity modification. Pharmacologic treatments range from analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to disease-modifying therapies for inflammatory arthropathies, corticosteroids, and, for gout or CPPD, urate-lowering therapy or anticrystal agents. In selected cases, joint injections or surgery may be indicated.

Prognosis varies widely by cause. Arthropathies are common conditions, with degenerative forms like osteoarthritis being especially prevalent in older adults.